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The Cousins O'Dwyer Trilogy #1-3
The Cousins O'Dwyer Trilogy 3 Book Collection Set by Nora Roberts
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts comes a trilogy about the land we’re drawn to, the family we learn to cherish, and the people we long to love.... Dark Witch
With indifferent parents, Iona Sheehan grew up craving devotion and acceptance. From her maternal grandmother, she learned where to find a land of lush forests, dazzling lakes, and centuries-old legends. Ireland. County Mayo, to be exact. Where her ancestors’ blood and magic have flowed through generations—and where her destiny awaits. Iona arrives in Ireland with nothing but her Nan’s directions, an unfailingly optimistic attitude, and an innate talent with horses. Not far from the luxurious castle where she is spending a week, she finds her cousins, Branna and Connor O’Dwyer. And since family is family, they invite her into their home and their lives. When Iona lands a job at the local stables, she meets the owner, Boyle McGrath. Cowboy, pirate, wild tribal horseman, he’s three of her biggest fantasy weaknesses all in one big, bold package. Iona realizes that here she can make a home for herself—and live her life as she wants, even if that means falling head over heels for Boyle. But nothing is as it seems. An ancient evil has wound its way around Iona’s family tree and must be defeated. Family and friends will fight with each other and for each other to keep the promise of hope—and love—alive.... Shadow Spell
With the legends and lore of Ireland running through his blood, falconer Connor O’Dwyer is proud to call County Mayo home. It’s where his sister, Branna, lives and works, where his cousin, Iona, has found true love, and where his childhood friends form a circle that can’t be broken.... A circle that is about to be stretched out of shape—by a long-awaited kiss. Meara Quinn is Branna’s best friend, a sister in all but blood. Her and Connor’s paths cross almost daily, as Connor takes tourists on hawk walks and Meara guides them on horseback across the lush countryside. She has the eyes of a gypsy and the body of a goddess…things Connor has always taken for granted—until his brush with death propels them into a quick, hot tangle. Plenty of women have found their way to Connor’s bed, but none to his heart until now. Frustratingly, Meara is okay with just the heat, afraid to lose herself—and their friendship—to something more. But soon, Connor will see the full force and fury of what runs in his blood. And he will need his family and friends around him when his past rolls in like the fog, threatening an end to all he loves.... Blood Magick
County Mayo is rich in the traditions of Ireland, legends that Branna O’Dwyer fully embraces in her life and in her work as the proprietor of The Dark Witch shop, which carries soaps, lotions, and candles for tourists, made with Branna’s special touch. Branna’s strength and selflessness hold together a close circle of friends and family—along with their horses and hawks and her beloved hound. But there’s a single missing link in the chain of her love.... She had it once—for a moment—with Finbar Burke, but a shared future is forbidden by history and blood. Which is why Fin has spent his life traveling the world to fill the abyss left in him by Branna, focusing on work rather than passion. Branna and Fin’s relationship offers them both comfort and torment. And though they succumb to the heat between them, there can be no promises for tomorrow. A storm of shadows threatens everything that their circle holds dear. It will be Fin’s power, loyalty, and heart that will make all the difference in an age-old battle between the bonds that hold their friends together and the evil that has haunted their families for centuries.
With indifferent parents, Iona Sheehan grew up craving devotion and acceptance. From her maternal grandmother, she learned where to find a land of lush forests, dazzling lakes, and centuries-old legends. Ireland. County Mayo, to be exact. Where her ancestors’ blood and magic have flowed through generations—and where her destiny awaits. Iona arrives in Ireland with nothing but her Nan’s directions, an unfailingly optimistic attitude, and an innate talent with horses. Not far from the luxurious castle where she is spending a week, she finds her cousins, Branna and Connor O’Dwyer. And since family is family, they invite her into their home and their lives. When Iona lands a job at the local stables, she meets the owner, Boyle McGrath. Cowboy, pirate, wild tribal horseman, he’s three of her biggest fantasy weaknesses all in one big, bold package. Iona realizes that here she can make a home for herself—and live her life as she wants, even if that means falling head over heels for Boyle. But nothing is as it seems. An ancient evil has wound its way around Iona’s family tree and must be defeated. Family and friends will fight with each other and for each other to keep the promise of hope—and love—alive.... Shadow Spell
With the legends and lore of Ireland running through his blood, falconer Connor O’Dwyer is proud to call County Mayo home. It’s where his sister, Branna, lives and works, where his cousin, Iona, has found true love, and where his childhood friends form a circle that can’t be broken.... A circle that is about to be stretched out of shape—by a long-awaited kiss. Meara Quinn is Branna’s best friend, a sister in all but blood. Her and Connor’s paths cross almost daily, as Connor takes tourists on hawk walks and Meara guides them on horseback across the lush countryside. She has the eyes of a gypsy and the body of a goddess…things Connor has always taken for granted—until his brush with death propels them into a quick, hot tangle. Plenty of women have found their way to Connor’s bed, but none to his heart until now. Frustratingly, Meara is okay with just the heat, afraid to lose herself—and their friendship—to something more. But soon, Connor will see the full force and fury of what runs in his blood. And he will need his family and friends around him when his past rolls in like the fog, threatening an end to all he loves.... Blood Magick
County Mayo is rich in the traditions of Ireland, legends that Branna O’Dwyer fully embraces in her life and in her work as the proprietor of The Dark Witch shop, which carries soaps, lotions, and candles for tourists, made with Branna’s special touch. Branna’s strength and selflessness hold together a close circle of friends and family—along with their horses and hawks and her beloved hound. But there’s a single missing link in the chain of her love.... She had it once—for a moment—with Finbar Burke, but a shared future is forbidden by history and blood. Which is why Fin has spent his life traveling the world to fill the abyss left in him by Branna, focusing on work rather than passion. Branna and Fin’s relationship offers them both comfort and torment. And though they succumb to the heat between them, there can be no promises for tomorrow. A storm of shadows threatens everything that their circle holds dear. It will be Fin’s power, loyalty, and heart that will make all the difference in an age-old battle between the bonds that hold their friends together and the evil that has haunted their families for centuries.
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First published November 25, 2014
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About the author
Nora Roberts
1,214 books59.9k followersNora Roberts is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than 200 novels, including Hideaway, Under Currents, Come Sundown, The Awakening, Legacy, and coming in November 2021 -- The Becoming -- the second book in The Dragon Heart Legacy. She is also the author of the futuristic suspense In Death series written under the pen name J.D. Robb. There are more than 500 million copies of her books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
January 9, 2015
The first book in this trilogy was good, the second ok and the third book - borderline painful. The stereotypical Irishness of it all became smothering. No surprises with characters or plots, it's all been done before, only better I think.
June 7, 2020
Dark Witch is book one of the Cousins O’Dwyer paranormal romance trilogy. These stories are set in Ireland and are a mix of legend, culture and magic. Iona Sheehan has come to Ireland in search of her family relatives and in hopes of finding a place that she can call home. Her skills as a horsewoman and the dormant magic she has, directly link her to Sorcha, a witch who lived more than 800 years ago; an evil which has followed Sorcha’s descendants through time. Iona must join with her cousins in an attempt to defeat an evil man-wolf one final time.
May 6, 2021
When I first found Nora Roberts I loved her. She was able to really make me feel for her characters and want the best for them. The first book I ever read by her was Black Hills and to this day it is one of my favorites. Really you should go read it.
This series however I did not enjoy. Every book was EXACTLY the same. . You could say I'm tired of it. The first 5 or 6 books of hers that I read i enjoyed but the repetition got old quick. Maybe thats how she is able to release so many, by following the same basic outline. Who knows.
The fantasy portion of the story could have been easily covered in 200 pages. I felt like there was nothing there, all three books felt like filler. Since this is my favorite part of the story, it annoyed me. There are much better books out there, even by her, that you could read instead. I recommend 'The Witness' or 'Black Hills'. I really enjoyed those.
This series however I did not enjoy. Every book was EXACTLY the same. . You could say I'm tired of it. The first 5 or 6 books of hers that I read i enjoyed but the repetition got old quick. Maybe thats how she is able to release so many, by following the same basic outline. Who knows.
The fantasy portion of the story could have been easily covered in 200 pages. I felt like there was nothing there, all three books felt like filler. Since this is my favorite part of the story, it annoyed me. There are much better books out there, even by her, that you could read instead. I recommend 'The Witness' or 'Black Hills'. I really enjoyed those.
January 19, 2015
Book one was good, book two fell short in the historical prologue. Nora or her editors fell down on the job again. Potatoes didn't come to Ireland until the 1500's. Three centuries after the prologue, so unless the brother magicked them over, we have a problem. Book three is where I almost threw the book against the wall. In the interest of full disclosure, I am Wiccan of Celtic descent. When the "demon's" name was revealed, I went ballistic. Google Cernunnos, you will find that name is the Celtic horned Lord of the forest. Christianity demonized Him because they couldn't get rid of the old religion. If the cousins were truly of the old religion, honoring the Lord and Lady, there is no way Cernunnos would have been accepted as a demon. If fact, demons and the devil are Christian inventions. Paganism doesn't have a devil, evil and dark-yes; devil, no.
December 21, 2014
3.5/5
This trilogy starts with a glimpse of the past. In Ireland, 1263, Sorcha, a Dark Witch lives with her kids (Brannaugh, Eamon and Teagan). She awaits the return of her husband (Daithi) as she fights against the evil Cabhan. Cabhan has magical powers, is purely evil in his thirst for blood, and hungers for the immense power which resides in Sorcha. Sorcha dies after bequeathing her three children with her power. She sends them away to protect them and knows her children, or theirs, will vanquish Cabhan one day.
It is 2013. In this generation, the three who hold the power are Branna, Connor and Iona. The O’Dwyer’s live in Count Mayo. Sorcha’s children failed to win over Cabhan and so did the others that came from them. They cannot live freely because Cabhan still wants their power and will kill to have it.
Iona has lived in Baltimore all her life but never felt at home. She knows her legacy, accepts it and comes to Ireland to make a life there and be a Dark Witch. She meets with her cousins (Branna and Connor) who welcome her warmly. Iona encounters Cabhan as well. Now that this generation has its three legacies together, it is time for them to take the fight to Cabhan. Dark Witch constitutes the first attempt by the cousins to defeat Cabhan. And of course this is Iona’s story, where she finds love with Boyle. Iona is pixie-like in her joy and enthusiasm. Boyle is her boss and a kind-hearted man with a rough exterior. He doesn’t possess a lick of magic but has been a friend to the cousins. Both come across each other in the personal as well as professional spheres and soon the sparks start flying.
Shadow Spell is Connor’s story. He has faced Cabhan all his life but Cabhan remained at the edges then. Now Cabhan actively seeks to possess the power and destroy the three legacies. Meara is a friend to Connor’s sister Branna, and has known Connor all her life. But after Connor survives a close brush with death, both are drawn together. Connor is powerful, Meara possesses no magic, but she has a loyal and strong heart and she chooses to stand tall against Cabhan when he starts focusing on him. Connor is already fighting Meara to make her believe in their love, but he also has to ensure that Meara survives against Cabhan, and that they finish him. This book includes the second attempt of the cousins to defeat Cabhan.
Blood Magick is the last book in the trilogy. Branna and Fin have been in love since they were kids. But since Fin bears the mark that distinguishes him as the heir of Cabhan, they cannot be together. Fin has been searching for a way to remove the mark but hasn’t found it yet. Branna has fought, fought hard against Fin’s involvement in her life but it cannot be avoided. They have to work together to vanquish the evil. And if the close proximity leads to unavoidable attraction they will deal with it, or so Branna has always resigned herself to think. But greater forces are at play here. And what seems easy will never be so, especially when it comes to Fin and Branna’s relationship. The circle of friends once again comes together in this last fight. This time, what’s at stake is higher and the battle more dangerous. This is the last chance they have of eradicating Cabhan. If they fail, they might lose more than just the opportunity, they might lose a friend.
This series literally steps up on the rating chart book by book. The first book had me annoyed. Iona did not win my heart, but I did sympathise with her. I liked the fact that she stood up for herself and refused to compromise time and again. I loved the fact that she admitted that she deserved better and acted accordingly. That said, the immediate acceptance of Iona into the inner circle of friends bugged me. Sometimes, things and events went too fast and sometimes they went too slow. There were a few parts which just seemed a bit disjointed and the progress wasn’t smooth. Add to that, I am not a big fan of almost-love at first sight. I had assuredly read better stuff by Nora Roberts. So yeah, I wasn’t very happy. In my opinion, Dark Witch definitely suffered from being the first-book-in-the-series-syndrome. On its own, I rate this book 3/5.
Dark Witch did not impress me but succeeded in getting me interested in the series. I wanted Cabhan to die (bloodthirsty moment here, I wanted him to PAY). I wanted Meara and Connor together. In Shadow Spell, I got all that. I liked the way the events in the book took place. The mesh of past and present – for both scenes and the characters, delighted me and interested me more. Connor’s character, his depth was good to see. And I loved Meara, flaws and all. She was a strong character easy to identify with. The chemistry between them was good but the understanding between the two was better. The plot held up nicely and surprises did not disappoint. Overall, I rate this book a 3.5/5.
Blood Magick was my favourite book in the series. Branna and Fin both had suffered separately. They loved each other but the mark that Fin bears made Branna wary of him. A haunting beauty, that is what I saw when it came to their relationship. The previous books had Fin and Branna exchanging smoldering looks, painful confessions and beautiful emotions. Consequently, there was a build up of expectations with this story. Since the author delivered, I felt relieved and ecstatic both. Instead of making the story too hot or too sweet, Blood Magick was a good mix of sweet and saucy, happy and painful, obvious and the unexpected. The final showdown, and Fin’s proceeding efforts to face Cabhan were really good. I liked Branna, she held the strength of steel and possessed the brains too. Fin’s loyalty to her, his determination to make everything all right again, even at a great amount of sacrifice, was commendable. I also loved the author’s take on Fin’s story. She wordlessly admits that the good characters can do big harm too. At a glance, this book had everything I could have hoped for. For that I rate this book a 4/5.
Something I love about books by Nora Roberts is that human failings, day-to-day life, the minute details, all that make a story realistic are dealt with amazingly. Be it the profession or the emotion, she captures the spirit exceedingly well without overwhelming the reader.
I had heard that this series mimics the Sign of Seven Trilogy by Roberts and even bears some similarities to The Circle Trilogy. I find it hard to agree. The concept is similar and there does exist a pattern to which Nora Robert adheres to. However, this pattern is followed in all her novels fantastical or contemporary. But then, there are only so many ways one can write a good romance and this author has experimented with them all. I say that because I have read almost all of her series published yet. She is my go-to-author when I want to feel good and need the satisfaction derived from a happy ending. That said, I am not biased towards her or anything. It is just that the similarities do come to an end after a short order of time.
In the above mentioned series and most of the other series by this author, the prominent characters are either friends or family. In the stories with the paranormal, the story gets kick-started due to some sort of catalyst added to the the already existing dangerous mixture. From there it is a fight against power, time, and sometimes emotions. The Cousins O’Dwyer Trilogy proceeds in the same manner. However, the background is different; the beginning, location, timeline all are different. Just because there is a formula, people have overlooked the simple enjoyment of reading about different characters, due to which the book’s popularity has suffered.
I enjoyed The Cousins O’Dwyer Trilogy , and hope another series will make it to my collection soon. On the whole, I rate this series a 3.5/5. It deserves a chance and I am glad I gave it one.
Review posted on Gemstreet Reviews
This trilogy starts with a glimpse of the past. In Ireland, 1263, Sorcha, a Dark Witch lives with her kids (Brannaugh, Eamon and Teagan). She awaits the return of her husband (Daithi) as she fights against the evil Cabhan. Cabhan has magical powers, is purely evil in his thirst for blood, and hungers for the immense power which resides in Sorcha. Sorcha dies after bequeathing her three children with her power. She sends them away to protect them and knows her children, or theirs, will vanquish Cabhan one day.
It is 2013. In this generation, the three who hold the power are Branna, Connor and Iona. The O’Dwyer’s live in Count Mayo. Sorcha’s children failed to win over Cabhan and so did the others that came from them. They cannot live freely because Cabhan still wants their power and will kill to have it.
Iona has lived in Baltimore all her life but never felt at home. She knows her legacy, accepts it and comes to Ireland to make a life there and be a Dark Witch. She meets with her cousins (Branna and Connor) who welcome her warmly. Iona encounters Cabhan as well. Now that this generation has its three legacies together, it is time for them to take the fight to Cabhan. Dark Witch constitutes the first attempt by the cousins to defeat Cabhan. And of course this is Iona’s story, where she finds love with Boyle. Iona is pixie-like in her joy and enthusiasm. Boyle is her boss and a kind-hearted man with a rough exterior. He doesn’t possess a lick of magic but has been a friend to the cousins. Both come across each other in the personal as well as professional spheres and soon the sparks start flying.
Shadow Spell is Connor’s story. He has faced Cabhan all his life but Cabhan remained at the edges then. Now Cabhan actively seeks to possess the power and destroy the three legacies. Meara is a friend to Connor’s sister Branna, and has known Connor all her life. But after Connor survives a close brush with death, both are drawn together. Connor is powerful, Meara possesses no magic, but she has a loyal and strong heart and she chooses to stand tall against Cabhan when he starts focusing on him. Connor is already fighting Meara to make her believe in their love, but he also has to ensure that Meara survives against Cabhan, and that they finish him. This book includes the second attempt of the cousins to defeat Cabhan.
Blood Magick is the last book in the trilogy. Branna and Fin have been in love since they were kids. But since Fin bears the mark that distinguishes him as the heir of Cabhan, they cannot be together. Fin has been searching for a way to remove the mark but hasn’t found it yet. Branna has fought, fought hard against Fin’s involvement in her life but it cannot be avoided. They have to work together to vanquish the evil. And if the close proximity leads to unavoidable attraction they will deal with it, or so Branna has always resigned herself to think. But greater forces are at play here. And what seems easy will never be so, especially when it comes to Fin and Branna’s relationship. The circle of friends once again comes together in this last fight. This time, what’s at stake is higher and the battle more dangerous. This is the last chance they have of eradicating Cabhan. If they fail, they might lose more than just the opportunity, they might lose a friend.
This series literally steps up on the rating chart book by book. The first book had me annoyed. Iona did not win my heart, but I did sympathise with her. I liked the fact that she stood up for herself and refused to compromise time and again. I loved the fact that she admitted that she deserved better and acted accordingly. That said, the immediate acceptance of Iona into the inner circle of friends bugged me. Sometimes, things and events went too fast and sometimes they went too slow. There were a few parts which just seemed a bit disjointed and the progress wasn’t smooth. Add to that, I am not a big fan of almost-love at first sight. I had assuredly read better stuff by Nora Roberts. So yeah, I wasn’t very happy. In my opinion, Dark Witch definitely suffered from being the first-book-in-the-series-syndrome. On its own, I rate this book 3/5.
Dark Witch did not impress me but succeeded in getting me interested in the series. I wanted Cabhan to die (bloodthirsty moment here, I wanted him to PAY). I wanted Meara and Connor together. In Shadow Spell, I got all that. I liked the way the events in the book took place. The mesh of past and present – for both scenes and the characters, delighted me and interested me more. Connor’s character, his depth was good to see. And I loved Meara, flaws and all. She was a strong character easy to identify with. The chemistry between them was good but the understanding between the two was better. The plot held up nicely and surprises did not disappoint. Overall, I rate this book a 3.5/5.
Blood Magick was my favourite book in the series. Branna and Fin both had suffered separately. They loved each other but the mark that Fin bears made Branna wary of him. A haunting beauty, that is what I saw when it came to their relationship. The previous books had Fin and Branna exchanging smoldering looks, painful confessions and beautiful emotions. Consequently, there was a build up of expectations with this story. Since the author delivered, I felt relieved and ecstatic both. Instead of making the story too hot or too sweet, Blood Magick was a good mix of sweet and saucy, happy and painful, obvious and the unexpected. The final showdown, and Fin’s proceeding efforts to face Cabhan were really good. I liked Branna, she held the strength of steel and possessed the brains too. Fin’s loyalty to her, his determination to make everything all right again, even at a great amount of sacrifice, was commendable. I also loved the author’s take on Fin’s story. She wordlessly admits that the good characters can do big harm too. At a glance, this book had everything I could have hoped for. For that I rate this book a 4/5.
Something I love about books by Nora Roberts is that human failings, day-to-day life, the minute details, all that make a story realistic are dealt with amazingly. Be it the profession or the emotion, she captures the spirit exceedingly well without overwhelming the reader.
I had heard that this series mimics the Sign of Seven Trilogy by Roberts and even bears some similarities to The Circle Trilogy. I find it hard to agree. The concept is similar and there does exist a pattern to which Nora Robert adheres to. However, this pattern is followed in all her novels fantastical or contemporary. But then, there are only so many ways one can write a good romance and this author has experimented with them all. I say that because I have read almost all of her series published yet. She is my go-to-author when I want to feel good and need the satisfaction derived from a happy ending. That said, I am not biased towards her or anything. It is just that the similarities do come to an end after a short order of time.
In the above mentioned series and most of the other series by this author, the prominent characters are either friends or family. In the stories with the paranormal, the story gets kick-started due to some sort of catalyst added to the the already existing dangerous mixture. From there it is a fight against power, time, and sometimes emotions. The Cousins O’Dwyer Trilogy proceeds in the same manner. However, the background is different; the beginning, location, timeline all are different. Just because there is a formula, people have overlooked the simple enjoyment of reading about different characters, due to which the book’s popularity has suffered.
I enjoyed The Cousins O’Dwyer Trilogy , and hope another series will make it to my collection soon. On the whole, I rate this series a 3.5/5. It deserves a chance and I am glad I gave it one.
Review posted on Gemstreet Reviews
February 5, 2015
I have problems with "epics" written in the standard one romance a book format. Epics should build across the books... However, I liked the characters and how she handled the magic better in this series than some. It had more "magic" than some of her earlier Irish legend series and didn't require world building, which I don't think Ms. Roberts does well. She is better at adding flavor of paranormal ( a ghost or talent) than developing a whole world. A good fantasy series ends with cliff hangers, character development across the trials, etc. They aren't chopped into little pieces. I really enjoy Ms. Robert's series focusing on careers (landscaping, ship building, wine making, etc...) and this had more of that feel to it. I don't read a lot of contemporary romance, probably 3 to 1 historic v. contemporary, and I read most of Nora's. I just don't think epics are her strongest, however this one was more engaging than most. I even found myself using a bit of Irish lilt and phrasing when talking to my dog by the end of the series.
February 4, 2015
Normally I love everything Nora Roberts writes, but I just couldn't get into this trilogy. The six main characters never gelled for me, some have power, some don't, they keep going to battle with the almost dead, time traveling villain but they can't kill him, so they must figure it out in three books. Could have been done in one, this just seemed to drag on.
August 9, 2015
What's not to love about Nora Roberts, triology, magic, Ireland and magic? Well the 1st book was good, 2nd and 3rd just ok. Very disappointed in the last book.
February 12, 2015
I really wanted to enjoy the series...I love Nora Roberts, I love stories about witches and I love Ireland. But these were at times painful to read and the plot was pretty standard. No surprises...
August 8, 2023
Dark Witch:
This is the first book in the Cousins O'Dwyer series.
Iona has never felt like she's belonged. When her Nan tells her of her heritage, she sells everything she owns and moves to Ireland. To her roots, to her family, to learn more of the magic that is within her. She must learn to fight the evil that wants her magic.
Boyle has never been known for his softer side. He has his love of horses and friends that'll stand for their round in the pub. When the pixie-sized American comes to work at his stables, he realizes she's more than she seems.
I enjoyed the start of this series. I liked how the newness to the magical side of Iona's life caused a bit of tension between her and Boyle, and how they resolved the issue. I especially liked how Iona was not going to settle for "just". That really spoke close to my heart.
Shadow Spell:
This is the second book in the Cousin O'Dwyer series.
Mera has felt that love is not in the cards for her. She's seen first hand how such an affection can cause a person to whither away. Things changed when her lifelong friend Connor almost died while fighting the evil that wants to take his magic. She can keep her feelings locked tight and still enjoy what they have. Right?
Connor has known all his life that part of his destiny was to end the evil that has plagued his family for generations. When his sisters best friend makes a move on him, he's all up for seeing where things will go between them. He only has to change her mind on how love can be between two people. It should be easy enough. Right?
Connor and Mera is a great story to read of life long friends becoming lovers. Mera's fear is deep of having love given to her by another. She's seen how her mother has become after her father left. And she feels she's more like her father than what she'll ever admit. I really liked how Connor showed her that love is a gift, not a prison.
Blood Magic:
This is the third book in the Cousin O'Dwyer series.
Branna has known all her life about her legacy - to defeat the evil sorcerer that has plagued her family since the 13th century. She's worked and studied for this moment. But her heart is divided, as it belongs to her childhood sweetheart - the one that comes from the evil sorcerer and bears his mark. Can she keep her heart whole and still defeat the evil?
Finbar has traveled the world over, searching on how to break the curse that Branna's ancestor placed on the evil sorcerer as she was dying. A curse placed to protect her own children. He bears the mark, through no fault of his own. And he will die proving it, if he has to.
The conclusion to this trilogy answers a lot of questions that arose in the other two books. I really enjoyed it. However, Branna's words seemed to be a bit stiff and formal to me. It seemed forced, not a natural speech. It seemed, in the other two books as well, that everyone relied on her brain to do what was necessary in defeating the evil sorcerer.
In the end, the evil is destroyed, of course, and the curse is broken. It is an enjoyable read. One that is worthy of a re-read.
This is the first book in the Cousins O'Dwyer series.
Iona has never felt like she's belonged. When her Nan tells her of her heritage, she sells everything she owns and moves to Ireland. To her roots, to her family, to learn more of the magic that is within her. She must learn to fight the evil that wants her magic.
Boyle has never been known for his softer side. He has his love of horses and friends that'll stand for their round in the pub. When the pixie-sized American comes to work at his stables, he realizes she's more than she seems.
I enjoyed the start of this series. I liked how the newness to the magical side of Iona's life caused a bit of tension between her and Boyle, and how they resolved the issue. I especially liked how Iona was not going to settle for "just". That really spoke close to my heart.
Shadow Spell:
This is the second book in the Cousin O'Dwyer series.
Mera has felt that love is not in the cards for her. She's seen first hand how such an affection can cause a person to whither away. Things changed when her lifelong friend Connor almost died while fighting the evil that wants to take his magic. She can keep her feelings locked tight and still enjoy what they have. Right?
Connor has known all his life that part of his destiny was to end the evil that has plagued his family for generations. When his sisters best friend makes a move on him, he's all up for seeing where things will go between them. He only has to change her mind on how love can be between two people. It should be easy enough. Right?
Connor and Mera is a great story to read of life long friends becoming lovers. Mera's fear is deep of having love given to her by another. She's seen how her mother has become after her father left. And she feels she's more like her father than what she'll ever admit. I really liked how Connor showed her that love is a gift, not a prison.
Blood Magic:
This is the third book in the Cousin O'Dwyer series.
Branna has known all her life about her legacy - to defeat the evil sorcerer that has plagued her family since the 13th century. She's worked and studied for this moment. But her heart is divided, as it belongs to her childhood sweetheart - the one that comes from the evil sorcerer and bears his mark. Can she keep her heart whole and still defeat the evil?
Finbar has traveled the world over, searching on how to break the curse that Branna's ancestor placed on the evil sorcerer as she was dying. A curse placed to protect her own children. He bears the mark, through no fault of his own. And he will die proving it, if he has to.
The conclusion to this trilogy answers a lot of questions that arose in the other two books. I really enjoyed it. However, Branna's words seemed to be a bit stiff and formal to me. It seemed forced, not a natural speech. It seemed, in the other two books as well, that everyone relied on her brain to do what was necessary in defeating the evil sorcerer.
In the end, the evil is destroyed, of course, and the curse is broken. It is an enjoyable read. One that is worthy of a re-read.
February 1, 2024
Y volvemos a una de las trilogías de Nora Roberts. Estamos evolucionando de las primeras, donde no hay magia, pero siempre hay 3 amigas o 3 amigos que terminan siendo 3 parejas, una por cada libro.
En esta trilogía, como en la anterior, ya va introduciendo la magia, que adquiere mayor importancia cuanto más evoluciona la autora, hasta que lleguemos a la de Año 1.
En general me ha gustado, a pesar de tener muchos puntos repetitivos con las anteriores. Unas son amigos de toda la vida, otros vienende nuevas, pero se hacen de la familia inmediatamente. Los chicos son siempre majísimos. Las chicas siempre son las que no quieren hablar del amor, pero luego se derriten...
En esta trilogía, tenemos dos historias, en el pasado, sobre el 1200, y en el presente.
En el pasado, Sorcha, con sus tres hijos, espera la llegada de su marido, que está en la guerra, mientras que es acosada por un brujo, que la desea y que también quiere su poder. Sorcha es la bruja oscura. Sin embargo, tras un aborto, se siente enferma, y llama a su marido para que los defienda, a ella y a sus hijos, de Cabhan, el brujo.
Pero su marido es emboscado por éste, y ella, intentando salvar a sus hijos, les da su poder, y luego intenta matar al brujo, maldiciéndolo a él y a sus descendientes.
Llegamos al presente, y aquí, una chica americana viene a Irlanda a conocer a sus primos, ya que su abuela le ha contado la historia de la bruja oscura,y cómo ella es una de las que componen el grupo de los 3, junto a sus primos lejanos.
Ellos tres, ahora asediados por Cabhan, que ha recuperado las fuerzas tras su lucha con Sorcha, más sus respectivas parejas, una de ellas, Fin, descendiente de Cabhan, y por lo tanto, maldito por Sorcha, tendrán que enfrentarse a Cabhan y ademas romper la maldición de Fin, para que pueda ser feliz con Branna.
En esta trilogía, como en la anterior, ya va introduciendo la magia, que adquiere mayor importancia cuanto más evoluciona la autora, hasta que lleguemos a la de Año 1.
En general me ha gustado, a pesar de tener muchos puntos repetitivos con las anteriores. Unas son amigos de toda la vida, otros vienende nuevas, pero se hacen de la familia inmediatamente. Los chicos son siempre majísimos. Las chicas siempre son las que no quieren hablar del amor, pero luego se derriten...
En esta trilogía, tenemos dos historias, en el pasado, sobre el 1200, y en el presente.
En el pasado, Sorcha, con sus tres hijos, espera la llegada de su marido, que está en la guerra, mientras que es acosada por un brujo, que la desea y que también quiere su poder. Sorcha es la bruja oscura. Sin embargo, tras un aborto, se siente enferma, y llama a su marido para que los defienda, a ella y a sus hijos, de Cabhan, el brujo.
Pero su marido es emboscado por éste, y ella, intentando salvar a sus hijos, les da su poder, y luego intenta matar al brujo, maldiciéndolo a él y a sus descendientes.
Llegamos al presente, y aquí, una chica americana viene a Irlanda a conocer a sus primos, ya que su abuela le ha contado la historia de la bruja oscura,y cómo ella es una de las que componen el grupo de los 3, junto a sus primos lejanos.
Ellos tres, ahora asediados por Cabhan, que ha recuperado las fuerzas tras su lucha con Sorcha, más sus respectivas parejas, una de ellas, Fin, descendiente de Cabhan, y por lo tanto, maldito por Sorcha, tendrán que enfrentarse a Cabhan y ademas romper la maldición de Fin, para que pueda ser feliz con Branna.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2022
J’ai apprécié chacune des trois histoires, parce qu’elles avaient toute une particularité et une dynamique différente entre les couples. La premier tome entre Iona et Boyle se focalise sur la rencontre entre l’Américaine et ses cousins ; le deuxième se concentre sur Connor et Meara deux amis d’enfance ; et le dernier sur Branna et Fin deux anciens amants séparés par leur sang.
J’ai beaucoup aimé tension qui monte graduellement, et le fait que l’on en découvre plus sur la magie tout le long de l’histoire. Le parallèle entre le passé et le présent m’a aussi plu, surtout le lien qui unit les enfants de Sorcha et les héros du présent, ça ajoutait un côté « ancestral » à la magie.
C’est sans surprise que je donne la note de 5/5 à ce roman, on y retrouve tous les éléments qui font le syle de Nora Roberts, l’Irlande, la magie et la romance.
J’ai beaucoup aimé tension qui monte graduellement, et le fait que l’on en découvre plus sur la magie tout le long de l’histoire. Le parallèle entre le passé et le présent m’a aussi plu, surtout le lien qui unit les enfants de Sorcha et les héros du présent, ça ajoutait un côté « ancestral » à la magie.
C’est sans surprise que je donne la note de 5/5 à ce roman, on y retrouve tous les éléments qui font le syle de Nora Roberts, l’Irlande, la magie et la romance.
December 9, 2024
Now, one might think from looking at the start and finished dates that I am either a very slow reader or these are very hard reads. Neither is at all accurate. They are surprisingly quick reads, but I got so invested in the stories that I didn’t want them to end, so I slowed my reading down so I could remain with these characters as long as I could.
Nora Roberts is a very talented author, and I honestly felt so connected with my ancestral home of Ireland, and the Magick described in it is very similar to my own Wiccan beliefs. Family and home are very prominent in these books, chosen family valued equally with blood, which is so relevant today.
This my first Nora Roberts trilogy, and it won’t be my last!
Nora Roberts is a very talented author, and I honestly felt so connected with my ancestral home of Ireland, and the Magick described in it is very similar to my own Wiccan beliefs. Family and home are very prominent in these books, chosen family valued equally with blood, which is so relevant today.
This my first Nora Roberts trilogy, and it won’t be my last!
October 19, 2018
First venture into NR, and I really enjoyed it!!! There were a couple plot and character holes that could have been explored a little more, but nothing that stopped the story from progressing or from loving the characters. It was paranormal romance, but the different than your typical PR/UF in that it was totally believable to occur in our current world without a major suspension of belief. It was almost like a background flavor, instead of a the whole taste. I’ll definitely explore more Nora books!
October 25, 2018
IMHO Nora Roberts’ best work is the Dark Witch 3 book series. Strong, resilient, decisive female characters with strong, independent male characters. Instead of trying to one-up each other or fighting for control over each other, these couples embrace each others’ strengths and support each others’ weaknesses. They are true partners. And the historical saga combined with the current stories is compelling and intricate. These books are great reads and keep you interested beginning to end.
March 10, 2021
This is by-far my favorite Nora Roberts Trilogy. The emotion, the detail, the suspense, and the incredible magic is all quintessential NR, but she takes it above and beyond with these books. She really makes the characters come to life - in a way that I almost feel as though I have three cousins who live in Ireland who possess incredible magic and fought an ancient sorcerer.
I’ve read and reread these books several times, and each time they still amaze me.
I’ve read and reread these books several times, and each time they still amaze me.
September 29, 2017
After reading the Three Sisters trilogy first, I felt that the two trilogies were far too similar. To an extent that just felt lazy. Even the characters felt like clones of each other. This trilogy was predictable and often tedious for me. The ending was anticlimactic and abrupt, and the villain felt like a bad cliche.
December 25, 2017
Three books (Dark Witch, Shadow Spell, Blood Magick) span the story of The Dark Witch in Ireland from 1263 to present day. Three witches in every generation must fight the dark one until the last three fight with the past three and light wins over darkness. This is the 3rd time I've read the series.
July 30, 2023
J'aime beaucoup cette autrice, avec sa façon d'écrire et de narrer qui est vraiment incroyable. Même si j'ai mis du temps à me mettre à fond dedans, je ne l'ai plus lâché une fois réellement commencé !
Elle sait nous transporter dans son monde sans nous perdre. Notre imagination peut faire son boulot sans problème. Je le recommande.
Elle sait nous transporter dans son monde sans nous perdre. Notre imagination peut faire son boulot sans problème. Je le recommande.
March 3, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyed this trilogy right up to the end. Then Ms Roberts completely ruined it by naming a God as her apparent demon. I thought she was better educated in things Pagan than that but apparently not. Will not read her again. Very disappointed
September 26, 2017
Enjoyed this series. First series I ever read by Nora Roberts and I am a paranormal fiction reader. I enjoyed the paranormal story and the romance that brews between the characters. Sometimes it's predictable but it is a nice cozy read set in Ireland.
December 25, 2023
I enjoyed the storyline and was hooked in the first chapter, but the story felt a bit flat from the middle. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to starting the second book. It would make a great movie!
February 12, 2024
This is a fun, quick read. Enjoyable and entertaining. You don’t have to be a witch to know the power of love can drive out any darkness, so long as we don’t block it out with fear and pride.
Love the themes of food, gardening, and connection to nature.
Love the themes of food, gardening, and connection to nature.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2024
Don't waste your time. This trilogy is waaayyy too long, too much filler. I keep having the same problem with her fantasy trilogy series; they are all alike. Just repeating the same story over and over again.
September 26, 2017
In a sucker for Noras trilogies. They may, At times, feel as though only the names and locations change along with the root storyline..but! I can always enjoy the journey.
January 11, 2018
Absolutely loved this trilogy. Full of romance, emotional journeys, and action.
March 10, 2018
I love this trilogy, sad to have finished. It was so good.
August 26, 2018
it was OK, but the plots of the 3 books were very repetitive
December 24, 2018
I truly enjoyed this series. I read the entire series in four days and nights. I like the story how it starts in the 1200's and moves to 2013 with the "three" ancestors.
August 25, 2019
Incredible as always!
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